We have heard a lot about pollution in Delhi, but on Monday, Mumbai's air's quality was almost three times worse than Delhi's and this is backed by scientific data.

According
to data of System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research
(SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) in Mumbai was 312, while Delhi
recorded an overall AQI of 105.

In
Focus

The
data collected by SAFAR shows that Bhandup, Chembur, Malad and
Mazgaon were the worst affected areas in the city. While Mazgaon
reported the highest air pollution with an AQI of 358, Malad recorded
324 and Bhandup recorded 333. The lowest score was that of Borivali
at 247.

One
of the major reasons for a sudden spike in pollution levels in Mumbai
is believed to be the bonfires that were burnt across the city as a
part of the Holi celebrations.

The
air in the city Monday was categorised as 'very poor' as AQI
levels between 301-400 fall under the 'very poor' category. AQI
record of 201-300 is considered to be under the 'poor' category.
Both the 'poor' and 'very poor' categories indicate a health
risk for people sensitive to air pollution especially those who are
suffering from breathing problems or lungs-related diseases.

The
lead pollutant that was recorded was particulate matter (PM) 2.5
– found
twice more than what is considered as
the
safe limit. These are small pollutant particles that can enter the
lungs.